C2 Dash Panel Illumination

[John L.]

While I have removed the radio for repair work, I would like to address the poor illumination for the heater control knobs and clock. When driving at night, the existing bulbs behind the panel barely illuminate the area.

Would a potential fix to this problem involve changing the existing bulbs with bulbs that have higher "candle power" or do I just cleaning the bulb contact points?

Thanks for your reply.

[Douglas L.]

Re: C2 Dash Panel Illumination

John,

I have never found a good solution for dash lights. If someone has, it would be good to hear about it.

[Ronald L.]

Re: C2 Dash Panel Illumination

Ditto here, I was looking at this same thing last night - love to hear of some ideas...

[Alan D.]

Re: C2 Dash Panel Illumination

My idea would be to try some LED's They draw little to no current with a very narrow directional illumination. I suspect these can just be added to the existing bulb wiring. Have not given this any analysis so may not work when the numbers are known however its a starting place.

[John H.]

Re: C2 Dash Panel Illumination

#1817 bulbs are a little brighter than the original #1816 illumination bulbs; they're available from www.atlantalightbulb.com (or something close to that).

[Steve D.]

Re: C2 Dash Panel Illumination

Just replaced the 7 cluster bulbs in my 63 with the 1817's from Atlantic.

They are much brighter, 1816 - 4.0 watts, 1817 - 5.4 watts, a little pricey

But I feel well worth the money. Still need to do the clock.

Steve

[John L.]

Re: C2 Dash Panel Illumination

Wouldn't the 1893 bulb be the one to use in the radio and heater controls?? This a brighter bulb and is still listed in some catalogues (GE)